Demon Slayer: Hashira Training Arc episode 1 recap: "To Defeat Muzan Kibutsuji" welcomes back Hashira members

From the epic battle between the Hashira and a menacing demon to the hilarious rehabilitation of Tanjiro Kamado, the first episode of Demon Slayer: Hashira Training Arc was an emotional rollercoaster, to say the least!

Still, the season premiere was nothing short of a fun time, so if you missed out you might be experiencing some major FOMO. But don't worry, we're here to give you a quick recap on everything you've missed as well as what you can expect from the next episode.

Warning: Spoilers ahead for Demon Slayer episode "To Defeat Muzan Kibutsuji."

"To Defeat Muzan Kibutsuji" recap

We begin the episode with the Serpent Hashira, Obanai Iguro, and the Wind Hashira, Sanemi Shinazugawa, on the hunt to find a demon who seems to be behind the sudden disappearances of a lot of women. The two, as strong as they are, can only secure the kidnapped woman from the demon but cannot track down the demon, especially when the demon escapes to a mysterious location.

This could pose to be bad news in the near-coming future.

Shortly after this cold opening, we see Tanjiro Kamado in rehab. He seems to be doing much better, but we quickly learn that he is one of the last people to completely heal.

During his stay, he is joined by his swordsmith, Hotaru Haganezuka, who visits him to deliver a brand-new sword, which gives him the courage to press on to fight a little longer for those who cannot fight for themselves.

Tanjiro's injuries and rough recovery are perfect signals for the Hashira to put their training into full throttle, as humanity (and especially the very sick Kagaya Ubuyashiki) desperately needs to see the eventual defeat of Muzan before it is too late.

The Sound Hashira, Gyomei Himejima, proposes that each of the remaining Hashira members train the young demon slayers in their own unique way. That way, they can withstand most, if not all, of any demons' advances. All Hashira members agree to the training except for Giyuu Tomioka, the Water Hashira.

We don't exactly know why Giyuu refused to participate. However, we do know that this lets us know that there could be some infighting coming up if Giyuu doesn't open up about what is ailing him.

Nevertheless, the Hashira cannot wait for Giyuu, as time is ticking. And so, the Hashira training begins.

The young demon slayer soldiers are getting worked to the bone, which is definitely a hilarious sight to see. Still, we can only hope that the cruel training pays off mentally and physically. But even if it doesn't, there are things already happening in the background that may give humanity the upper hand on Muzan.

With Kagaya Ubuyashiki nearing the end of his life, he locates Lady Tamayo with his crow. The crow asks Tamayo if she would be willing to collaborate with the Insect Hashira, Shinobu Kocho, to find what made Nezuko Kamado able to conquer the sun. If they can find the answer before Muzan does, they may be able to provide a cure and finally put a stop to Muzan. But this is a huge "if."

What to expect from episode 2

The second episode is titled "Water Hashira Giyu Tomioka's Pain," which lets us know that we may get more insight into the mysteries of the Water Hashira's mind.

Also, this episode may provide a closer look into the Hashira's training and what lessons everyone can learn from them.

Lastly, we hope to see details of what Lady Tamayo and Shinobu can accomplish if they put their heads together.

All in all, this season of Demon Slayer is going to be a whole lot of fun. Be sure to head to Crunchyroll on Sunday, May 19, at 10:45 a.m. PT/1:45 p.m. ET to catch the brand-new episode!